Page 34 of Revive

“Let’s call it a night.”

Apologetic eyes stare at me, and I feel compelled to clarify that being attracted to her doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate a good meal and great conversation. And if I’m honest, I think I needed this more.

“Taylah.” I place my hand over hers, keeping her focus on me. “Thank you for light and casual.”

“The food and company were pretty great, weren’t they?”

I stare at her, because I don’t want to look anywhere else. My eyes travel over every part of her, grateful the night took this turn. “Can we do this again some time?”

“I’ll see if I can fit you in my schedule.”

My phone rings, ruining the moment, and Sasha’s name appears on the screen, adding salt to our wounds. I don’t know how Taylah feels about Sasha, but I know she isn’t stupid. There isn’t a moment I can have without a reminder of her, and any progress we made just left the building.

She drags her hand from under mine. “You better get that.”

“It’s probably Dakota,” I throw out, looking for a plausible excuse. “She sometimes calls off her mum’s phone.”

“Sure.”

I’ve lost her.

Years of habit mean I can’t let it ring out. “Hello.”

“Uncle Drix.”

A large exhale leaves my body, as Dakota’s voice answers instead of Sasha’s “Kid, what’s wrong with your own phone?”

“I went over my data plan, so I’m trying to save money.”

“You almost gave me a heart attack.” I try to get Taylah’s attention, but she looks everywhere but me. “What’s up?”

“I’m just checking you’re coming tomorrow.”

“Of course I’m coming, when do I not show up.”

“Never. I just like to check in.”

“We’re all going to be there,” I assure her. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I’m good. What are you up to tonight?”

“I’m having dinner with a friend.” Taylah’s body stills at my response. “I’ve got to go, okay? I’ll see you bright and early. Get some sleep.”

My favourite waiter brings the bill placing it in front of Taylah. She opens it, and slips her credit card in, just as I wrap up the phone call.

“Love you, Uncle Drix.”

“Love you, too, kid.”

I drop the phone on the table with a thud, and take hold of her credit card, handing it back to her. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“Paying for dinner?”

Dragging my wallet out of my back pocket, I throw some cash in the leather holder and wait to hand it back to the waiter myself.

“I could’ve paid.”

“I know.”

---